Advance Queensland
Queensland Government innovation funding program supporting startups, researchers, and businesses to develop and commercialise new ideas and grow Queensland's innovation economy.
Overview
Advance Queensland is the Queensland Government's innovation and startup support program, delivering a suite of grants, fellowships, and initiatives to help Queenslanders innovate and commercialise their ideas. Run by the Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport, Advance Queensland supports the full innovation continuum from early-stage ideas through to commercial scale-up. Key programs include the Ignite Ideas Fund, Industry Research Fellowships, Advance Queensland Fellowships, Innovation Partnerships, and the Business Development Fund for venture-backed startups. The program aims to grow Queensland's innovation ecosystem and create high-value jobs.
What You Can Find Here
- Ignite Ideas Fund - grants for individuals and small businesses to prototype and test innovative ideas
- Industry Research Fellowships - for researchers embedding in industry to work on commercial R&D
- Advance Queensland Fellowships - supporting world-class researchers to come to or stay in Queensland
- Innovation Partnerships - co-funded R&D between businesses and research organisations
- Business Development Fund - Queensland co-investment with venture capital for high-growth startups
- Programs for specific sectors including agriculture, resources, health, tourism, and digital economy
Who Should Use This
- Queensland-based individuals with early-stage ideas for the Ignite Ideas Fund
- Researchers at Queensland universities and research institutes seeking industry collaboration funding
- Startups with VC backing seeking Queensland government co-investment through the Business Development Fund
- Businesses pursuing collaborative R&D with universities through Innovation Partnerships
- International researchers interested in relocating to or collaborating with Queensland
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Visit advance.qld.gov.au to find current open grant rounds and programs
- Step 2: Check eligibility requirements for each program - most require Queensland location or activity
- Step 3: Prepare your application following the guidelines for your chosen program
- Step 4: Submit during the open application window - most programs have set rounds with specific deadlines
- Step 5: Successful applicants sign a funding agreement and begin project implementation with milestone-based payments
Things to Check Before Applying
- Advance Queensland programs typically require the applicant to be based in Queensland or conduct primary activities in Queensland
- Individual programs have varying eligibility - some are for individuals, others for businesses or researchers
- Grant rounds open at specific times - check the Advance Queensland website for currently open programs
- Most programs require a co-contribution from the applicant (cash or in-kind)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Advance Queensland grants?
Eligibility varies by program. Individuals, small businesses, startups, researchers, and larger companies can access different Advance Queensland programs depending on their stage and activities.
What is the Ignite Ideas Fund?
The Ignite Ideas Fund supports Queenslanders with an innovative idea to develop and test it. Grants are for prototyping and proof-of-concept activities.
Does Advance Queensland require Queensland residency?
Most programs require Queensland nexus - being based in Queensland or conducting the funded activities there.
What sectors does Advance Queensland support?
Advance Queensland is open to all sectors but has specific initiatives for agriculture, health, resources, tourism, digital economy, and clean energy.
Can international companies access Advance Queensland?
Some programs are open to international companies with Queensland operations or intent to establish Queensland presence. Check individual program eligibility.
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